I started this journey back in 2009 and have lost a little over 20 lbs but that is not nearly enough. I have been told by my dr recently that I must lose 50 lbs as if I don't I am going to be a full blown diabetic. Well, that is enough to scare me into doing something drastic as I lost my 1st husband to diabetes nearly 25 years ago and I know first hand all the complications that it can cause because he pretty much had them all. Up until Dec of 2011, I was caring for my dad. He passed ...

I started this journey back in 2009 and have lost a little over 20 lbs but that is not nearly enough. I have been told by my dr recently that I must lose 50 lbs as if I don't I am going to be a full blown diabetic. Well, that is enough to scare me into doing something drastic as I lost my 1st husband to diabetes nearly 25 years ago and I know first hand all the complications that it can cause because he pretty much had them all. Up until Dec of 2011, I was caring for my dad. He passed away December 26 and I have managed to get his affairs settled. Now I am just dealing with my dear DH's health issues. He underwent radiation for prostrate cancer and is now deemed cancer free but still dealing with several other health issues. I am starting on a new phase of my life - Mon, Oct 1 is my target date and I am not thinking of this as a diet, but a new way of eating to make me healthy for life.

My Goals:
Ultimately I would like to lose about 70 lbs but my main goal is to eat healthy and get into a healthy weight and BMI range. Diabetes runs in my family so I hope by living healthy I can avoid that.

My Program:
I walk at least 5x a week for 3 or more miles and try to swim several times a week. I eat vegan 1-2 days per week and watch my salt intake.

Personal Information:
Born and raised in a small town in central Ill. Moved to Edwardsville, IL to attend SIU, and got my degree from Webster Univ in STL, MO in 1985. Lived in the STL area for about 30 yrs before hitting the road and living in an rv for 6 yrs. Settled down to to health issues of my hubby. I have 2 sons, 2 step-daughters and a step-son. Between us we have 14 grandchildren and 4 great grandkids. I was forced into early retirement when the company I worked for was sold in 2000. Was able to enjoy it as it allowed us to travel and had we waited, the health issues would have kept us from doing that. I am blessed to have been maried twice to wonderful men. I married my high school sweetheart at 18 and he passed away at 41, due to complications of diabetes. I am happily remarried for 20 yrs now.

Other Information:
I am an avid reader when I have time. I like to swim and walk. Love traveling and seeing the country. We belong to Caring Canines, a therapy dog group, and take Abbie to visit hospitals and nursing homes.. I do a lot of volunteer work in the park where I reside. I am the beautification chair and take care of all the flowers and decorating in the park.